For lubricating plain journal bearings, what is the proper industrystandard oil? I ask because I've seen many kinds used. Some usestraight SAE 30, while others prefer to add thickener, such as STP toplain SAE 30.

We use a Brad-Penn product called No Rust Journal Oil. The proper oil must be used to preserve the brass bearing. I ran into a locomotive using a standard motor oil in the suspension bearings (very similar to the journals) and it would tear the wicks to shreds and turn it to gray matter.

Though many oils may work satisfactorily in the journal for lubricating, it is important that the oil include the rust inhibitor. Journals are notorious for having trace amounts of water from various sources. That is tough to avoid. Having the rust inhibitor helps protect the steel surface from droplets that might sit on the pad. Bearings that turn often have many less issues. If it is to sit any amount of time, the rust inhibitor is a must. We have used STP to help fill voids in scored axle to help prevent overheating while things seat it....but in addition to the journal oil, not a replacement for.

Generally, it should be an A.A.R. spec., all year, journal bearing oil. It's also used for traction motor bearings using oil lubrication. There are a number of suppliers including Interlube, Texaco (Journaltex), Chevron, Esso (Galcar), etc.

Al Stangenberger

Post subject: Re: Industry standard journal oil

Posted: Thu Jan 04, 2018 12:52 am

Joined: Mon Aug 23, 2004 12:59 pmPosts: 565

At Western Railway Museum we use Chevron Journaltek HD57. It's about $10 per gallon in 55-gal drums.

Here is the list Dave Johnston developed for possible sources, all meet AAR M 963:

Greetings:Valley Railroad has been using Interlube AYG for decades.Also their steam cylinder oil (valve oil) and air oil for the air end of compressors.Since converting from hard grease to oil it is used on side and main rods as well.All of their products can be purchased in 6 gallon pails or 55 gallon drums.J.DavidPS: I don't own any stock in Interlube! JDC

Overmod

Post subject: Re: Industry standard journal oil

Posted: Fri Jan 05, 2018 12:24 pm

Joined: Thu May 24, 2012 1:37 pmPosts: 1093

If I remember correctly, M963 has a discussion of the various additives and what they do, just as M942 does.

Last edited by Overmod on Fri Jan 05, 2018 3:39 pm, edited 1 time in total.

Gord M

Post subject: Re: Industry standard journal oil

Posted: Fri Jan 05, 2018 2:02 pm

Joined: Mon Sep 06, 2010 10:51 pmPosts: 102

J.David wrote:

Greetings:Valley Railroad has been using Interlube AYG for decades.Also their steam cylinder oil (valve oil) and air oil for the air end of compressors.Since converting from hard grease to oil it is used on side and main rods as well.All of their products can be purchased in 6 gallon pails or 55 gallon drums.J.DavidPS: I don't own any stock in Interlube! JDC

Interlube is also one of the few suppliers of A.A.R. Brake Cylinder Lubricant and Triple Valve Oil. I too have no stock in Interlube but I do use their products in my business and museum work.

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